A recent student survey conducted by campus dining revealed students are looking for more customizable, portable, fresh and money saving options for on-campus dining. Caliente, a Qdoba-style eatery, is the answer to this survey.

The restaurant will feature a variety of ingredients for students to create their own customizable meals. It will be easy for students to bring their meals around campus, and from class to class. Students can order a burrito or a bowl.

“This concept has been a team effort from NMS and UAA. We thought long and hard about what campus was missing and that’s how Caliente was conceived. We wanted to provide an easily portable item that is nutritious, filling and affordable in a space that is fun, fresh and unique to UAA campus. There is something for everyone on the menu,” Kari Sellars, NMS Marketing Manager, said.

The restaurant will accommodate vegetarians, vegans and gluten free students who might not otherwise have an option for on-campus eating. Chef made salsas, sauces, chicken tortilla soup and fresh guacamole are made in-house with fresh ingredients.

Area Chef Brad Harris grew up in Arizona and is passionate about the cuisine South of the border. Harris traveled frequently to Mexico, including two foreign exchange programs. Harris is incorporating Mexican Coke into the menu. The soda comes in glass pop-top bottle, the same you would find in Mexico.

The soft opening will be on August 25, and a grand opening is in the works for the second or third week of September.